Communication
Two-way communication at Camp
A Message From Michelle, Foley Parent and Alumni
Campers will write two mandatory letters home.
Campers will send a postcard within the first few days of camp and a letter at the midway point of camp. International campers’ letters will be scanned and emailed to their parents. Not hearing from your child many times means that your camper is totally immersed in camp life and doesn’t have time to write. International camper letters will be scanned and emailed to the parents or guardians on file Monday through Friday. Unfortunately, we can not send scanned letters to other family members or friends.
Mail and Emails to your Camper
We strongly encourage family and friends to write to your camper via snail mail. A handwritten letter in an envelope is so much more exciting than an email. New campers can feel comforted by receiving mail from home in the first few days. Some parents write their camper a letter and send it a few days before camp so they have mail when they arrive; we think that’s a great idea! Check out this blog for some helpful tips on sending your camper mail this summer.
To Send a Letter
Camper’s Name
Camp Foley
9303 Father Foley Drive
Pine River, MN 56474
To Send an Email
Prior to the start of the session, parents will be given access to Camp Stamps to send emails to their camper through CampInTouch.
Campers can ONLY write letters and will not have access to email you back.
Packages
Packages for forgotten items only. When sending a forgotten item from home, we ask that you email the Camp Foley Office prior to sending the package so that we know to open it immediately and get it to your camper. Forgotten medications will go directly to the nurse. Other packages, box or oversized/padded envelopes, will be returned to the sender if possible. If we cannot return the package to the sender, Foley reserves the right to donate the contents to charity.
Phone Calls
To work on independence, campers generally don’t have access to call home nor do we have times that parents call to talk to their kids. We know this may be one of the hardest parts of being a camp parent and we want you to feel confident with how your camper is doing at Foley, so feel free to email or call (218) 543-6161 at any time. If you do receive a letter that concerns you, please contact us.
Birthdays
Birthdays are the exception with packages and phone calls. You may send a birthday package (nothing edible) and cards, but please mark as such. We will hold packages and cards until the day of your child’s birthday. Flowers and balloons can be delivered by Sherwood Florist at 1-218-587-2802. You can also call to wish your camper a “Happy Birthday” by arranging this call with the camp office.
A birthday is celebrated by the camper being serenaded with the Foley Birthday Song along with a birthday party and a cake shared with their cabinmates.
Communication from Camp Staff
Communication with our parents is important as you place your trust with us. Here are some examples of when you will hear from us:
- If your camper is 10 years of age and under, or a new camper under the age of 14, cabin counselors will be writing a Quick Note generally on the 4th day of the session. This will be emailed to you.
- If your camper is a 3 week camper, their cabin counselors will be writing a recap and progress report for your camper at mid session and at the end of the session. Parents of 2 week campers will receive only the end of session letter. These letters will be emailed to you.
- Our Registered Nurse will contact parents with concerns regarding medication, campers admitted to the Health Center for over 4 hours, the removal of deer ticks, when repeated care is given, if needing to seek medical attention outside of camp or other health related questions. She will also respond to health related questions from our parents.
- If we have questions or need to update you about your child’s wellbeing, the Camper Coordinator, Director or Assistant Director will contact you. Examples may include a camper not participating in their activities or cabin events, not eating, struggling with passing their swim check, involved in behavior outside of our code of living or worries about something going on at home.
Severe Weather
The best place to check if severe weather is an issue is by following us on Instagram or Facebook. We will post updates there and in the CampInTouch News Alerts after storms.
Emergencies at Home
If there is a family emergency, such as a death or serious illness, please contact Marie Schmid, Executive Director. Marie will help set up a phone call, provide support for your camper and will help make any necessary travel arrangements.
Very worried or Just Need to Know
Each summer we talk to more “child-sick” parents than we do “homesick” campers. Instead of worrying, call the camp office and we can give you updates on your camper or if needed, check on specific issues and call you back. We want this to be a positive experience for you too.